Despite the fact that so many people do not seem to have any problem discussing their health issues, the subject of hemorrhoids is not often brought up in conversation. There are many people that have dealt with this condition at some stage in their life. Use the wonderful tips in the following article to learn the best preventative and treatment measures to help deal with hemorrhoids effectively.
A long-term, effective solution to help prevent uncomfortable, irritating, painful hemorrhoids is to merely adopt a high-fiber diet. Good foods that are rich in fiber include black beans, avocados, whole wheat pasta and leafy greens. Fiber cuts down on strain that can lead to hemorrhoids, and it also increases general bowel motility.
Practicing thorough bathroom hygiene habits decrease your chances of getting external hemorrhoids. Try using softer toilet paper that doesn't leave any behind, and keeping moistened wipes for using after doing your business.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is an effective remedy for pain and irritation associated with hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is an astringent that will shrink or constrict the hemorrhoid tissue, bringing relief and healing. Witch hazel can either be applied via inclusion in a sitz bath, or by direct application using a cotton ball for a few minutes.
If you are prone to getting hemorrhoids, then you want to be sure that you are drinking enough water. Drinking plenty of water will soften your stools. Caffeine and alcohol consumption should be limited.
Ice is usually pretty good for alleviating hemorrhoid pain. Hemorrhoids usually involve a lot of discomfort and pain. An ice pack can reduce both pain and swelling. Also apply heat to the area between using the ice pack. You can decrease the amount of swelling and stinging, by allowing yourself to soak in a tepid sitz bath. Between soaks, apply a homemade ice pack to the affected area.
Add lemon to your water to help with your hemorrhoids. Lemons can sooth hemorrhoids, so use them to get rid of some of your irritation. You should drink lemon water throughout the day to feel really good!
You may find that certain time-honored approaches to treating this problem are indeed effective in treating hemorrhoids. After you have a bowel movement, soak for about 15 minutes in a sitz bath. Don't make hemorrhoids worse by caving in and scratching them. Instead of scratching your hemorrhoids, apply witch hazel to them. Witch hazel will stop the hemorrhoids from itching for a little while. Eating lots of fiber-rich foods, and drinking plenty of water, are both very important. This will help you to refrain from excessive straining during bowel movements.
Lifting items that are too heavy for you to lift can cause hemorrhoids. When you lift something heavy, you strain your body in the same way as you do when you struggle to have a bowel movement. If you are susceptible to frequent hemorrhoid attacks, it is best that you avoid heavy lifting which will only make them worse.
To help ease constipation, try taking a brisk walk before your regular bowel movement. Walking can help your body function, while preparing your bowels for a movement. This will lessen the strain of passing the stool which could further irritate your hemorrhoids. Walk briskly for about 15 minutes.
Drink eight glasses of water a day. Water is an excellent way to help alleviate some of the troublesome aspects of hemorrhoids. Staying hydrated will prevent constipation, and ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids. Additionally, your body will be internally cleansed. Drink at least one ounce of water for every two pounds you weigh. For example, a 115 pound person should drink at least 57.5 ounces of water per day.
Avoid siting down on the toilet for extended periods of time to wait for a bowel movement. Oftentimes, people will read a magazine or newspaper while they're seated on the toilet waiting to relieve themselves. However, they may not realize that this still places a strain on their rectal area. Gravity also has an effect on your hemorrhoids, so make sure you already have the urge to go when you sit down.
Take frequent warm baths to help alleviate hemorrhoid swelling and the pain that often accompanies it. Water that is warm, not hot, promotes circulation and decreases your discomfort. Ideally, the water level should be between six and twelve inches deep. Try putting your knees up when you sit down. Remain in the tub at least until you feel the water beginning to cool.
You should consider purchasing a donut cushion, if you are suffering from hemorrhoids. These cushions are designed to allow someone with hemorrhoids to sit comfortably. Simply sit on it, and you will be much more relaxed then sitting on other surfaces.
The very private nature of hemorrhoids' affected areas makes it very difficult for many adults to openly seek advice from their friends or families. Fortunately, the information that you have just read is sure to answer at least a few of your questions about the symptoms and treatments that are associated with hemorrhoids.